Defending the Seas — CDeX’s Maritime Cybersecurity Scenario

Inside the Scenario – Realistic Maritime Threats

With over 80% of global trade transported by sea, the maritime industry is a critical part of the world’s economy—and a prime target for cyberattacks. From disrupting operations to putting crew safety at risk, these attacks can have severe consequences. 

Our maritime scenario mirrors these real-world threats. The goal? To equip maritime professionals with the skills and confidence to stay ahead of evolving cyber risks.

Vessel Operations Simulation

The scenario takes place aboard the MV Vigilant Sailor, a 150-meter tanker navigating from Tees Port to Antwerp. Participants assume key roles - Chief Officer, Chief Engineer, or Ship Master - managing everything from cargo documentation to safety compliance. However, alongside these tasks, they face cyber-attacks designed to disrupt operations, forcing them to balance real-time decision-making with cybersecurity awareness.

Cyber-Attack Simulations

Throughout the simulation, participants encounter multiple forms of attacks. Phishing emails disguised as operational messages, malware hidden in software updates, and even spear-phishing attempts target sensitive ship systems​. Each attack mirrors real-world threats, teaching participants how to identify, react to, and neutralize these risks while maintaining control over critical ship functions.

What Sets This Training Apart?

• Realistic, Level-Based Challenges

CDeX’s scenario is built to mimic real-world maritime operations, with four escalating levels of difficulty. Participants start with seemingly routine tasks, such as responding to emails, but soon face phishing attacks, spear-phishing, and malicious software hidden in what appear to be legitimate communications. The gradual increase in complexity ensures that participants are continually challenged, testing their ability to recognize and respond to cyber threats in high-pressure situations​.

• Advanced Navigational Cyber-Attacks

What makes this training truly innovative is its focus on navigational systems. In Level 4, participants face attacks on the ship’s Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS). They deal with GPS jamming, AIS spoofing (where fake vessels appear on the chart), and data tampering that affects speed and depth readings​. These attacks test their ability to manage crucial navigational data, ensuring they are prepared for real-world scenarios that could compromise the vessel’s safety.

This blend of operational and cybersecurity training gives maritime professionals a holistic understanding of the challenges they may face, from malicious emails to compromised navigational data, setting this training apart from traditional approaches.

Key Benefits for Participants

Hands-On Learning in Real-Time

This scenario offers more than just theory—it puts participants in real-world situations where they must manage both maritime operations and cyberattacks simultaneously. The hands-on experience helps participants develop critical thinking skills and quick decision-making abilities​.

Strengthening Cyber Resilience

The training equips maritime professionals with the tools to recognize and respond to a wide range of cyber threats, from malware to advanced navigational data manipulation​. By mastering these challenges in a controlled environment, participants gain the confidence to handle similar situations in the real world, ultimately strengthening the overall resilience of maritime operations.

Preparation for Future Threats

As cyberattacks continue to evolve, this scenario prepares participants to anticipate and tackle future threats. The training’s focus on both current and emerging attack methods ensures that participants are ready for the next generation of cyber risks, making them proactive defenders of their maritime systems​.

Securing the Future of Maritime Operations

As cyber threats in the maritime industry grow more complex, proactive training becomes essential. Our innovative scenario, developed with Shipadvisors and Antwerp Maritime Academy, provides a unique and practical approach to cybersecurity. By combining operational tasks with simulated cyber-attacks, this training ensures that maritime professionals are not only prepared for today’s threats but are also equipped to face the evolving risks of tomorrow.

For organizations looking to safeguard their maritime operations, this scenario offers an invaluable opportunity to build cyber resilience and stay ahead of potential attackers. Don’t wait for a cyber incident to occur—invest in your cybersecurity defences today.